How to Become a Muslim

Assalaamu’ alaykum wa rahmatullah wa barakatuhu to our Muslim Ummah and a Warm Welcome to all Seekers of True Knowledge.

If you believe in the teachings of Islam, it is recommended to make a formal declaration of faith. After careful study and prayer, if you find that you want to embrace the faith, here’s how.

Note: Many Muslims prefer to say that they have “reverted” rather than “converted” to Islam. Either term is generally accepted among the Muslim community.

Difficulty: Average

Time Required: Variable

Here’s How:

  1. For a Muslim, every action begins with your intention. Quietly, to yourself, make the intention to embrace Islam as your faith.
  1. Say the following words with clarity of intention, firm faith and belief:
  2. Say: “Ash-hadu an la ilaha ill Allah.” (I bear witness that there is no diety but Allah.)
  3. Say: “Wa ash-hadu ana Muhammad ar-rasullallah.” (And I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.)
  4. Take a shower, symbolically cleansing yourself of your past life. (Some people prefer to shower beforemaking the declaration of faith above; either way is acceptable.)
  5. Learn how to pray and practice Islam in your daily life.
  6. Continue to learn, study, and grow in your new faith. Seek support from Muslims if available.
  7. Maintain your existing family relationships to the best of your ability. Some may have difficulty accepting your decision, but at all times try to keep the doors open and be a good example of humility, kindness, and patience.
  8. Share your story, to find camaraderie and to inspire others!

Tips:

  1. Before embracing Islam, be sure to spend time studying the faith, reading books, and learning from other Muslims. Browse through the Muslim convert support information on this website.
  1. Your conversion should be based on knowledge, certainty, acceptance, submission, truthfulness, and sincerity.
  2. It is not required to have Muslim witnesses to your conversion, but many prefer to have such support. God is your ultimate Witness.
  3. If you wish to go for Hajj (pilgrimage), a “certificate of Islam” may be required to prove that you are a Muslim. (Only Muslims are allowed to visit the city of Mecca.) Contact your local Islamic center to obtain one; they may ask you to repeat your declaration of faith.